Welcome to the HBA Law Student Center! This page is a guide for students at Houston’s three law schools on getting involved with the HBA. It includes information on continuing education programs open to law students, scholarships available through HBA sections, volunteer opportunities, career development opportunities and helpful links to additional resources. Involvement with your local bar association is a foundation for building a successful career after law school. And as professionals, many HBA members enjoy networking with law students to keep up-to-date on legal education and the talent pool coming out of local law schools.

The HBA does not have a formal law student section, and you do not have to pay dues to the HBA to take advantage of the opportunities described on this page. If you have ideas or information for the HBA Law Student Center, email Amy Verbout.

HBA Programs for Law Students/Law Schools

MOILP 1L Summer Clerkship Program:
The HBA’s Minority Opportunities in the Legal Profession Committee sponsors the area’s only summer clerkship program for 1L law students. The positions provide mentoring and real work experiences for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity for a clerkship at a law firm, corporate legal department or legal nonprofit. Participating students also have the opportunity to attend seminars on professional writing, getting the most out of internships, and making the best impression on your employer. Watch for informational seminars at your law school and contact your career services office for more information.

Juvenile Justice Mock Trial Program – An Employment Opportunity:
The HBA hires law students from all three Houston schools to assist with its Juvenile Justice Mock Trial Program, conducted in four sessions in eighth grade classrooms throughout Harris County. Law students work with HBA staff to help students develop a case story, prepare witnesses, write attorney questions, and educate those chosen as court personnel about their roles. Law students work during two five-week classroom units each fall and each spring. At the conclusion of the classroom unit, law students help the eighth graders enact their mock trial in real Harris County courtrooms. For more information, contact HBA Education Director Ashley Steininger.

The Houston Lawyer Magazine – Available for Students

Law students are welcome to stop by the HBA office, located at 1111 Bagby, FLB 200, Houston, Texas 77002, anytime from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, and pick up a copy of the latest issue of The Houston Lawyer, the HBA’s bi-monthly substantive legal publication.

HBA Section Luncheons Available to Law Students

A number of HBA Sections invite law students to attend their monthly CLE luncheons and activities, and some offer discounted prices for law students. The sections listed below regularly allow law students to attend their luncheons. Check the Section Calendar link for the most updated date, time, cost, location and RSVP information:

Resources for Newly Licensed Attorneys

Out of law school and entering practice? The resources below will help you as you transition from legal education to legal career.

Mentor-Protégé Program:
The HBA Mentor Protégé Program, sponsored by the HBA Professionalism Committee, pairs attorneys licensed three years or less with more experienced attorneys who will provide advice on career development. This program is open to all attorneys in Houston, not just HBA members. Mentor-Protégé Application. The form can be emailed to arianao@hba.org.

Guidelines for Women Attorneys Juggling Work/Life Balance:
The HBA Gender Fairness Committee has developed a list of things to consider when interviewing with law firms or legal departments. Guidelines.

TYLA Presents “Office In a Flash”
A guide provided by TYLA for aspiring solo attorneys who are newly licensed or ready to be their own boss. This site is full of useful information on each aspect to help get your new business started. Click here for Office in a Flash.

After the Bar Exam:
A free resource for persons who have taken the Texas bar exam and are awaiting the results. Visit www.afterthebarexam.com

Law Practice Management ResourcesClick here for helpful resources on managing a law practice.